Bangladesh Bans Use of Prime Minister's Image on Government Event Banners

The Bangladesh government has banned the use of the Prime Minister's image on banners, festoons, and billboards prepared for official government events.

The directive was issued in a circular by the Cabinet Division on Sunday, following instructions from Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, according to Deputy Press Secretary Hasan Shiplu.

Shiplu said the Prime Minister noticed his own photograph displayed on banners for a government ministry's event while travelling from his residence in Gulshan to the Secretariat on Sunday morning.

"After arriving at his office in the Secretariat, the Prime Minister summoned the Cabinet Secretary and instructed that the practice be stopped immediately," Shiplu said.

Following the directive, the Cabinet Division issued a circular signed by Deputy Secretary Tania Afroz.

According to the circular, the use of the Prime Minister's photograph—whether in 3D format or any other design—on banners, festoons, or billboards prepared for government events is now strictly prohibited.

The circular also instructs government agencies to prioritize the subject matter of an event when designing promotional materials. Banners and billboards should present only relevant and balanced information, ensuring that the purpose, message, and content of the event are clearly communicated.

The Cabinet Division said the directive is of significant importance and takes effect immediately.